Gerontology is the study of the physical, psychological, and social aspects of aging. The Bachelor of Science in Gerontology degree takes a multidisciplinary approach from these three areas and encourages student growth and individuality.
The Bachelor of Science in Gerontology degree includes one of three concentrations in Gerontology: Administration; Healthy Aging, and Pre-Health OR an approved minor from a different department.
Requirements
General Education: All students complete the UNO General Education requirements.
Gerontology Core: (24 credit hours)- GERO 2000: Intro to Gerontology
- GERO 3000: Community Resources for Older Adults (on-campus only) or GERO 4670 Programs and Services (online only)
- GERO 3070: Death & Dying
- GERO 3500: Biology of Aging
- GERO 4460: Psychology of Adult Development & Aging
- GERO 4470: Mental Health & Aging
- GERO 4550: Health Aspects of Aging
- GERO 4690: Working with Minority Elderly
Gerontology Electives: (9 credit hours)
Students tailor gerontology electives to career goals helping them become more marketable to employers. Students may choose any undergraduate gerontology courses for this area.
Statistics & Research Methods: (6 credit hours)
Students complete 6 credits (two courses) in Research Methods and Statistics, allowing students to be better prepared for management positions or for graduate school.
Gerontology Practicum: (3 credit hours)
Students complete 156 hours in a practicum site of their choice. This allows for important real-world experience before graduation. To learn more about the practicum click here.
Gerontology Concentration (18 credit hours) In addition to the required major coursework, students choose from one of three concentrations in Gerontology:
- GERO 4350 Issues in Aging: Management & Administration of Aging Programs
- GERO 4510 Long Term Care Administration
- GERO 4520 Senior Housing
- Students choose 9 additional credit hours from an approved course listing.
- GERO 4560 Nutrition & Aging
- GERO 4420 Recreation for the Aging
- GERO 4850 Hospice
- Students choose 9 additional credit hours from an approved course listing.
- GERO 4560 Nutrition & Aging
- GERO 4850 Hospice
- Students choose 12 additional credit hours from an approved course listing; primarily science-related classes.
If a student prefers, they may also choose any approved UNO minor rather than a concentration to support their educational goals.
Our Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) for the Bachelor’s Degree:
- SLO 1: Demonstrate an understanding of fundamental interdisciplinary evidence-based knowledge and theories for competent gerontological practice.
- SLO 2: Demonstrate critical thinking when analyzing diverse and complex aging issues and outcomes from an interdisciplinary perspective.
- SLO 3: Exhibit abilities to effectively use basic communication (written, oral, interpersonal) skills and information technology.
- SLO 4: When interacting with others, demonstrate social and cultural awareness, sensitivity, respect, and support of multiple perspectives, and exhibit personal and social responsibility, and ethical and professional behavior in all settings.
Questions regarding the Bachelor of Science in Gerontology can be directed to the Gerontology Undergraduate Academic Advisor:
Heather Ford, MA, CDP
Gerontology Advisor/Program Coordinator
Email: hford@unomaha.edu
Office Phone: 402.554.2114